In 1964, author Betty Friedan, in her book The Feminine Mystique, challenged the prevailing notion in the 1950s that women could only derive satisfaction as wives and mothers, any ambitions outside of this realm being unnatural. Consider the female characters of Schary's work within the ideological framework of the 1950s. How do these women either conform to or shatter the notion of the ideal woman?

At the center of FDR's struggles is the challenge he faces in overcoming infantile paralysis (polio). Beyond the physical difficulties he must champion, there is a social stigma connected with the illness as well. Examine the impact of polio on its victims, as well as on American society at large. How devastating was the disease? Why were Sara and others so desperately concerned about FDR appearing in public as an invalid? Further, do you think the same types...